Originally diagnosed with cancer in 2010, Aretha, who turned 76 in March, bravely battled back and refused to be knocked out by illness. Her last performance as on November 2, 2017 for the Elton John AIDS Foundation in New York. Her final public performance was at Philadelphia’s Mann Center in August 2017. It was a miraculous show as Aretha was already then fighting exhaustion and dehydration.

The great Aretha Franklin is gravely ill in Detroit. The family is asking for prayers and privacy. May God be with her in her final moments and throw a party for her arrival to Eternal Glory. Thank you Aretha for your fabulous music. Godspeed! https://t.co/AE0x18XgMP

Y'all say a prayer for Aretha Franklin, she's gravely ill, surrounded by family and they are asking for Prayers. She's been singing since before I can remember. Thank you and God's speed. https://t.co/t4v2SZ8tg7